Illegal adoptions: Child rights panel initiates suo moto case

 Hyderabad: A day after alarming reports emerged about illegal sale and adoptions of children in the state, the Telangana Commission for Protection of Child Rights (TGCPCR) has swung into action.

On Wednesday, the commission initiated a suo motu case and urged the director of women development and child welfare department to ensure a thorough investigation and take appropriate action against those involved in the racket. As part of the immediate response, 16 children have been rescued and placed under the care of Shishu Vihar here.

Police under the Rachakonda commissionerate had busted an interstate child-selling racket and rescued 13 babies, including nine girls, the youngest being just about two months old. The racket came to light after police launched an investigation following the arrest of Shobha Rani, a registered medical practitioner (RMP) on May 22 for selling a child for Rs 4.50 lakh.

J. Srinivasa Rao, chairperson of TGCPCR, emphasised the importance of protecting children's rights and ensuring their safety.